Introduction to Computers: Chapter 1 Quiz English

central processing unit

Also known as the microprocessor; the brains of the computer. The part of a computer (a microprocessor chip) that does most of the data processing.

peripherals

An input device, output device, or secondary storage device that is not part of the central processing unit (CPU). An external device, such as a keyboard or monitor, connected via cables to the system central processing unit.

hardware

Computer hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer and related devices. Internal hardware devices include motherboards, hard drives, and RAM. External hardware devices include monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, and scanners.

output

Data that has been processed into a useful form by the computer.

input

Data that is entered into the computer system via an input or storage device.

storage

In computing, any device in which (or on which) information is stored.

computer

A machine that follows a set of instructions to change and store data. A computer is a programmable machine. This means it can execute a programmed list of instructions and respond to new instructions that it is given.

application software

A program that allows you to create documents, listen to music, or play games on the computer.

software

(computer science) written programs or procedures or rules and associated documentation pertaining to the operation of a computer system and that are stored in read/write memory.

universal serial bus

Common interface for connecting peripheral devices including mice, printers, and digital cameras.

byte

A byte is another word for character; generally represented by 8 bits. 8 bits = 1 byte, every letter, number, or special character on the keyboard is represented by 1 byte.

random-access memory

A type of memory that contains data that can be read or written to but is lost when the computer is turned off.

cloud storage

Online storage that enables users to upload, store, and access their files via the Internet; users' files are maintained by a third-party at a remote database storage facility

utility software

Systems software that perform tasks related to managing the computer's resources, file management, diagnostics, and other specialized chores

bit (computer)

The basic unit of the coded language that computers use.

processing

The second stage of the computing process, in which the computer analyzes information input by the user.

system software

software responsible for the general operation of a computer system, including the operation of hardware, running application software, and file management.

operating system (OS)

the most important piece of system software in a computer. The OS is the computer's master control program and acts as the interface between the computer user and the application being used.